Turkish Shrimp Pilaf Recipes

TURKISH SHRIMP PILAF

Steps:

• Heat the oil in a large nonstick fry pan.
• Fry the onion, peppers and garlic over low heat for 10 minutes until softened but not browned.
• Add the rice, spices and mint or basil.
• Stir over the heat for 2 to 3 minutes, then add enough water to cover the rice.
• Bring to a boil, lower the heat and simmer, uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, or until rice is just tender, but still has a little bite to it.
• Add the shrimp, currants and a little salt and pepper to taste.
• Cook for about 4 minutes more, until the shrimp are heated through, then add the lemon juice and chopped parsley.
• Serve pilaf warm or cold with salad greens.

TURKISH PILAF WITH VERMICELLI (SEHRIYELI PILAV)

Steps:

• Wash the rice several times with warm water and drain. Cover the rice with warm water and leave it for 15-20 minutes and drain. If you do not have time for this, just wash the rice and then drain.
• Place the butter and oil in a saucepan or pot and add the vermicelli or orzo. Over low-heat, fry until their color starts changing to golden brown. Do not over fry, take the pot from the stove as soon as you see the golden brown color and add the rice. Then, again place the pot on the stove and stir for 3-4 minutes over medium heat.
• Finally, add the hot chicken stock / water (If you leave the rice in water before cooking, use 1 ½ cup hot water otherwise use 2 cups). Add the salt and close the lid and cook over low heat, until the rice absorbs all the water. Meanwhile you can stir once or twice.
• Let the pilaf stand for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Pilaf goes well with any kind of dish.
• P.S: You can also add 1 tsp of lemon juice with the water, to make the pilaf shine.

SHRIMP PILAF

Steps:

• Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a deep, heavy 4-5 quart pan over medium heat; add shrimp and cook, stirring, until almost opaque throughout, about 3 to 4 minutes.
• Lift out and set aside (shrimp will get more cooking time later).
• Pour pan juices into a 1-quart measuring cup; add clam juice and enough water to make 2 1/2 cups, set aside.
• Melt remaining 1/4 cup butter in pan over medium heat; add onion and garlic, cook, stirring often, until onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
• Add rice and turmeric; cook, stirring for 2-3 minutes, add celery, salt, pepper and clam juice mixture.
• Reduce heat, cover and simmer until rice is almost tender to bite, about 15 minutes.
• With a fork, lightly mix tomatoes and peas into rice; scatter shrimp over top, cover and continue to cook until rice is tender to bite and liquid is absorbed, about 10 more minutes.
• Sprinkle with parsley.